AiR: Jim Bachor

In 2013, Chicago-based mosaic artist, Jim Bachor got tired of his city’s pothole problem and started installing his beautiful mosaics in them, making them more than just axle savers. 3 successful Kickstarter's in, and he's become well-known nationally for these outdoor art installations. He's hit Chicago's list of the city's greatest public art.

The first year his theme was flowers -- long stemmed vibrant roses, tulips, and lilies burst out of Chicago streets. The 2nd yr, the pothole installations was called 'Treats in the Streets'. A perfect name for the creamy white tiles bordering brightly colored popsicles seemingly tossed off a Good Humor truck -- that year Finland invited him to continue the series there.

He creates mosaics that speak of modern things in an ancient voice. His work surprises the viewer while challenging long-held notions of what a mosaics should be -- just like our other mosaic rock star, Isaiah Zagar. Hundreds, if not thousands of tiny, hand-cut pieces of Italian glass and marble comprise his work.

We've been watching Jim's series since the beginning. 

We're excited to say Jim bought his project to Philly in August! There are 3 installs in selected neighborhoods - one with imagery synonymous to Philly! Not only did the project give us an opporturnity fill a couple of car breakers, but what a delight and surprise it will be for people to look down and see these beautiful mosaics in a city that already has a bond to that artform.

For details on where to find the installs head over to our interactive map.